Skip to main content

Boreal Community Media

Cook County youth have an opportunity to learn the sport of pickleball at the 2024 CCTPA Spring After-School Junior Pickleball Camp

Apr 12, 2024 09:42AM ● By Content Editor
Photo: Tryg Solberg 

By Laura Durenberger-Grunow - Boreal Community Media - April 12, 2024


Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country and has gained extreme popularity in Cook County over the past few years. To keep up with the number of people playing pickleball in the area, the former Cook County Tennis Association has even changed its name to the Cook County Tennis and Pickleball Association (CCTPA). 

John Muus, former Coordinator and Head Instructor of local Junior Tennis Programs (from 1994-2013) and past Cook County School District Physical Education Teacher, told Boreal Community Media, "Some of the reasons why pickleball is so popular are because it is easy to learn and easy to be successful at. This is true for all ages and skill levels and it’s a lifetime sport anyone can enjoy." As a pickleball player himself, he wanted to provide an opportunity for elementary school-aged kids to have an opportunity to learn the sport and be successful at it. 

As part of the CCPTA, Muus is hosting the 2024 Spring After-School Junior Pickleball Camp on May 6 - 16, Mon. - Thurs., 3:30 - 4:30 PM (with Fridays reserved for make-up days in case of bad weather/cancellations). The Camp is open to all interested youth in grades 3, 4, and 5. "I think students in grades 3-5 can learn and play the game within one hour with some instruction and continue to improve each day. They’ll get an opportunity to play singles and doubles but we may concentrate more on doubles (2 against 2). We’ll see how much ground they can cover. It will be fun," Muus said. "Players can expect to learn the game of pickleball, develop and improve their skills, play the game, learn good sportsmanship and team play, and have a great time with their peers."

The CCPTA Junior Pickleball Camp is geared towards beginners, so no experience is required. Additionally, pickleball paddles will be provided if needed. 

Youth of similar age and skill will be matched together in groups, and Camp activities will include "Fun warm-up activities, active drills, and scored gameplay". 

"Participants will enjoy a safe, healthful activity and a sport that can be enjoyed for a lifetime," Muus said. 


2024 CCTPA Spring After-School Junior Pickleball Camp Information

For: All interested youth in grades 3, 4, & 5

When: May 6 - 16, Mon. - Thurs., 3:30 - 4:30 PM (Fridays will be make-up days in case of bad weather/cancellations).

Where: Public Tennis Courts / Pickleball Courts in Grand Marais

Fee: $20 (includes a pickleball t-shirt)

Registration Deadline: April 13, 2024

Program Coordinator / Head Instructor:  John Muus

For more information and/or a registration form contact John Muus at 218-387-2198 ( [email protected] )






 


Boreal Ship Spotter - larger view here